US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has vowed to stay at the Pentagon and fight expected impeachment efforts, defending the Iran war as a courageous campaign that prevented Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. His video response placed the conflict at the centre of his case for remaining in office.
The declaration followed major Republican losses in the midterm elections, which will give Democrats control of Congress. Vice President JD Vance identified the war as an obvious contributor to the result, linking battlefield decisions and their economic consequences to the administration's domestic political setback.
Democratic lawmakers plan investigations into Hegseth's management of the Pentagon, including the removal of senior military leaders and changes to institutional policy. Republican Representative Thomas Massie also intends to revive articles of impeachment, showing that criticism is not confined to the incoming majority.
Hegseth cited the dismissal of senior officials and reversal of diversity programmes as proof that he had carried out the administration's mandate. President Donald Trump praised him and argued that opponents were reacting to the removal of generals, although advisers have not ruled out replacing the secretary.
The dispute has immediate budget consequences. Hegseth wants Congress to approve a defence package worth $1.5 trillion, but his damaged relationships with lawmakers may complicate passage. A Democratic Congress can use hearings, appropriations and reporting requirements even if removing him from office remains politically difficult.
Oversight is likely to reach beyond personnel decisions. Lawmakers are preparing scrutiny of Iran-war strategy, support for Ukraine and strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels in Latin American waters. Each issue raises separate questions about legal authority, civilian risk, strategic objectives and the information provided to Congress.
Hegseth's refusal to leave does not settle his position. His survival will depend on Trump's continued backing, Republican discipline and what investigations uncover. The Pentagon now enters a period in which operational demands abroad will compete with subpoenas, budget battles and a sharply adversarial legislature.
